Gangotri

Gangotri, a Uttarakhand township, located 11,200 feet above sea level, is widely revered as one of the state's holiest sites due to the serenity and beauty it affords its residents at that altitude. Gangotri's primary attractions—its temples and hiking routes—mean that the city is always bustling with hundreds of pilgrims and adventurers from all over the country. Gangotri, with its serene atmosphere, palpable spirituality, and spectacular scenery, can be the best destination to find solitude and peace of mind.

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Things To See & Do

Auden's Col Walk

Auden's Col Walk

Scenic tourist attraction
Since its discovery by John Bicknell Auden in 1935, Auden's Col Valk has been the stuff of legend among mountaineers and trekkers alike. The path winds through dense alpine forests, flower-filled meadows, rushing streams, and dozens of remote villages deep in the Garhwal Himalayas, as well as a number of temples that attest to the region's religious importance.

2 to 3 hours

Suggested Time

Kedartal Patangini Pass Trip

Kedartal Patangini Pass Trip

Thrilling trekking spot
The Kedartal Patangini Pass Trip is a high-altitude lake trek in the Himalayas that is often considered to be among the best in the world. Natural scenery and stunning landscapes abound, guaranteeing that this hike will be interesting and enjoyable.

5 to 6 hours

Suggested Time

Tapovan

Tapovan

Therapeutic hot springs
Tapovan, in the beautiful Indian state of Uttaranchal, is a popular vacation spot due to its therapeutic hot springs. These springs are known to have healing qualities and are used to treat various skin conditions.

4 to 5 hours

Suggested Time

Dayara Bugyal

Dayara Bugyal

Sprawling meadow amid snow-clad mountains
Dayara Bugyal is a large meadow that is at an elevation of 3950 metres above sea level. Here you can find verdant green landscapes with fresh air, cows grazing on the hillside, and a pleasant wind passing through,

2 to 3 hours

Suggested Time

Pandav Gufa

Pandav Gufa

Historical natural cave
Approximately 1.5 kilometres from Gangotri Dham, the historic natural cave of Pandav Gufa is located. One may get to the cave after a short hike. The Pandavas in the Mahabharata are said to have pondered in Pandav Gufa en route to Mount Kailash. The entire length of the hiking path is surrounded by beautiful vegetation.

3 to 4 hours

Suggested Time

Gangotri National Park

Gangotri National Park

Home to exotic flora and fauna
The Indian national park Gangotri can be found in the Uttarkashi area of the state of Uttarakhand. The glacier of the same name, the Gangotri, is the inspiration for the park's name. The excitement of exploring this National Park is amplified by its challenging hikes, trodden pathways, crushed snow, whistling woodlands, and rustling leaves.

2 to 5 hours

Suggested Time

Gaumukh Tapovan Trail

Gaumukh Tapovan Trail

Scenic spot for hiking
It takes about 6-8 days to hike the 46 kilometres of the Gaumukh Tapovan Trail. It begins at Gangotri and travels across the Gangotri National Park, Gaumukh, and Tapovan before returning to Gangotri. This hike is not too tough for first-timers to tackle.

5 to 6 hours

Suggested Time

Gaumukh

Gaumukh

One of Uttarakhand’s holiest sites
Gomukh, also known as Gaumukh, is the sacred region from whence the holy Bhagirathi River flows, making it one of the holiest places in all of Uttarakhand. It is the second-largest glacier in India and can be found 18 kilometres away from Gangotri. Its tranquilly and virtuous legendary heritage draw hordes of worshippers.

5 to 6 hours

Suggested Time

Surya Kund Near Gangotri

Surya Kund Near Gangotri

Incredible tourist attraction
The breathtaking Surya Kund Waterfall at Gangotri may be seen about 500 metres from the sacred Gangotri Temple. It is claimed that Goddess Parvati would bathe in Suryakund as a form of worship to the Sun God. Each time rain hits the kund at the same moment the sun is out, a rainbow appears.

1 to 3 hours

Suggested Time

Gangotri Glacier

Gangotri Glacier

Stunning hiking spot
The northernmost point of the Chaukhamba Mountains is the source of the Gangotri Glacier. It's the place where the sacred Ganga River begins, and it's one of the greatest glaciers in India.

4 to 5 hours

Suggested Time

Gangotri Temple

Gangotri Temple

Revered Hindu shrine
Nestled in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, Gangotri Temple is the highest shrine devoted to Goddess Ganga, perched at an elevation of 3,200 metres. It forms a part of the revered Chota Char Dham pilgrimage circuit. Surrounded by the majestic Greater Himalayan Range and towering deodar and pine trees, the temple exudes serenity and natural beauty.

1-2 hours

Suggested Time

Best Time To Visit Gangotri

All Year Round Destination

  • MAR-JUN

    Peak Season

  • OCT-FEB

    Moderate Season

  • JUL-SEP

    Off-season

  • What To Expect:Pleasant weather and clear blue skies
  • Things You'll Love:Religious spots and outdoor excursions

FESTIVALS AND EVENTS

1/3

Basant PanchamiJanuary

Uttarayani FairSecond Week of January

Makar SankrantiSecond Week of January

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Ganga River View

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Gangotri – Discover Divine Serenity Amidst the Majestic Himalayas


Gangotri is more than just a location. It is a perfect combination of spirituality and natural beauty. This small town brings a unique calmness to your mind. The crisp air and majestic peaks enhance this tranquillity. Visitors feel connected to something eternal in this serene environment.

Many come to worship at the sacred Gangotri Temple, while others trek to the glacier where the holy Ganga begins. Pilgrims experience a deep sense of faith here. Gangotri is a place that will linger in your memory.


The Suitable Time to Visit Gangotri


Timing matters in Gangotri. May to June and September to October are perfect. It is the best time to go Gangotri. The weather is calm, and the skies open to views you will never forget. The monsoon months are from July to August. These months must be avoided as heavy rains bring landslides.

Winters, from November to April, turn Gangotri into a snowbound retreat—beautiful but nearly impossible to reach. If you want the full experience—temples, trails, and the river at its best—stick to summer or early autumn.


The Must-Visit Tourist Spots in Gangotri


The best Gangotri places to visit are:

  • Gangotri Temple– The Gangotri Temple is a 19th-century temple. The temple feels sacred even if you are not religious.
  • Bhagirathi Shila– A quiet spot where King Bhagirath is said to have meditated. You’ll feel the calm here.
  • Pandava Gufa– This cave, tied to the Mahabharata, feels like stepping back in time. Imagine the stories its walls could tell.
  • Surya Kund– The Surya Kundis a stunning cascade. The sound of water crashing against rocks symbolises the symphony of nature.
  • Harsil Valley– It is a nearby gem. The Harsil Valley is famous for its apple orchards alongside pine forests.

Best Things to Do in Gangotri


  • Trek to Gomukh– The trek to Gomukh presents challenges that make it rewarding. Each step brings you closer to stunning views. You will never forget the sight of the Ganga emerging from it.
  • Meditate by the River– Ganga here is not just a river. It is a presence. Sit by it, and you will feel the difference.
  • Explore Smaller Temples– Beyond the main temple, there are little shrines tucked away. Each temple has its own story in the nearby cities in Gangotri.
  • Wander the Trails– The paths around Gangotri offer views that feel like a postcard come to life, whether you are hiking or strolling.
  • Capture the Moment– Bring your camera or phone. Gangotri is a visual feast, from sunrises to temple rituals.

How to Reach Gangotri?


Getting to Gangotri requires some effort. This effort adds to its unique appeal.

  • By Air– The fastest route takes you through Jolly Grant Airport at Dehradun. Your next step brings a 250-kilometer mountain drive through stunning views.
  • By Rail– Those who love train rides can reach Rishikesh Railway Station first. From this point, a 234-kilometer stretch needs a taxi or bus ride ahead.
  • By Road– Tourists willing to travel by road have more freedom with routes from Rishikesh as well as Dehradun. You can choose bus rides, private cars, or shared taxis to fit your needs.
  • Local Travel– Once you’re in Gangotri, most places are walkable. For nearby spots, jeeps and shared cabs are easy to find.

State

Uttarakhand

Tourist Places in Gangotri

Auden's Col Walk, Pandav Gufa, Gaumukh, Gangotri National Park, Gangotri Glacier

Best Time to Visit Gangotri

March to June

Restaurants in Gangotri

Himalayan Treat (Taste of Himalaya) Cafe and Restaurant, Cafe Himalayan, Saket Cafe

Gangotri is famous for

Food & Culture

FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions about Gangotri

How is the weather of Gangotri in peak season?

The weather of Gangotri in peak season is pleasant weather and clear blue skies. It means you can easily plan a trip in this season for maximum fun during this season.

What are the things that you should not miss out on when you are in Gangotri?

If you are a true traveller, you should definitely not miss out on Scenic tourist attraction, Thrilling trekking spot, and Therapeutic hot springs when you are in Gangotri to make a funfilled vacay.

What are the best places to visit in Gangotri?

The most loved attractions in Gangotri are Auden's Col Walk, Kedartal Patangini Pass Trip and Tapovan.

Is Gangotri a family holiday destination?

The surrounding mountains, which provide opportunities for adventure, as well as the town's general natural splendour, make it a really remarkable destination. Almost every family should go there because it's one of the four holy cities (Char dhams).

What is the best time to visit Gangotri?

In spite of the fact that the temperature in Gangotri is low for most of the year, the months of April through June and September and October are the finest times to come. Summer at Gangotri is pleasant, making it the best time to visit the holy site. Due to the heavy rains, travel during the monsoon season might be difficult at times. The temperature in Gangotri drops below freezing throughout the winter, and the area has considerable snowfall that makes the environment uncomfortably cold.

What are some exotic stays in Gangotri?

Some of the most exotic stays in Gangotri Uttarakhand are Shivalik Kitchen, Dharali Heights Mountain Village, and Harsil Cottages | Rooms & Wi-Fi.